CONCERN is increasing over a lack of police presence in Bangor city centre.

The main issue relates to the fact the police station is only open for 10 hours a day, which means that any residents who contact the police during the time the station is closed, will have to wait for officers to come from a different locality.

A spokesperson for North Wales Police said: "Normal service is from 8.30am to 6.30pm, but due to staffing issues the service has been affected.

"The issue of opening times for front counters, including Bangor, is currently being considered by Western division and a consultation is being conducted through the local press.

"If the station is closed, members of the public are asked to use the phone on the outside of the building to contact the police."

Residents have previously stated that the city’s current problems with anti-social behaviour is down to lack of police rather than the standard of service received.

A concerned resident, whose daughter attends Bangor University, said: "I am extremely concerned for the student population of Bangor, and also those who frequent the towns and clubs of the city at evenings and weekends.

"I need to feel safe in the knowledge that should my daughter become the victim of a crime the police station in Bangor would offer refuge and immediate assistance, whereas a call would take some time for the police to arrive.

"I appreciate that the police are at the mercy of government initiatives and shrinking resources and by large do a great job.

"In no way do I want this to be entirely negative as I realise how hard police officers work, and they are not to blame for this."

Cllr Doug Madge said: "It’s not a good service because as far as I’m aware, if someone calls the police out of hours, then they have to come from Colwyn Bay.

"It’s been like that for months now, and it’s awful for somewhere like Bangor."